Job Titles in Quality

In the field of quality management, you will come across various job titles. What does each of them do? We have listed some of the commonly used job titles and their typical responsibilities in this post.

In addition, we have also recommended some of the training courses that can help professionals in these roles.

Depending on the industry and the organization, there could be additional responsibilities for these job titles.

Quality Analyst

Analyzes data obtained through observation, testing, sampling, and interviews to determine whether it is consistent with established requirements for product performance, quality, safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Analyzes data to identify problems that can lead to defects and recommends corrective actions.

 Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence,  Certified Quality Process Analyst Training,

Quality Inspector / Quality Technician

Inspects products and processes to ensure compliance with customer specifications, standards, procedures, regulations, and other guidelines. Reviews work done by others to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to design criteria.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence,   Certified Quality Improvement Analyst Training

Quality Associate

Assists managers of quality functions to improve their effectiveness in improving product or service quality. May also assist with process improvement projects. Provides feedback and recommendations to improve the effectiveness of quality control.

 Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Certified Quality Improvement Analyst Training

Quality Coordinator

Coordinates activities necessary to maintain high-quality levels within the entire manufacturing operation. Prepares written reports summarizing observations made during routine inspection activities. Monitors and records all quality assurance events to be reviewed at any time.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Certified Quality Improvement Analyst Training

Quality Systems Coordinator

Develops and maintains quality management systems. Coordinates activities of staff involved in quality control. Oversees preparation and implementation of quality programs and systems.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Certified Quality Improvement Analyst Training, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements, 

Quality Control Technician

Ensures that standards and requirements related to quality are followed. Reviews work performed by other workers to ensure it meets required standards. Determines whether work conforms to specifications and designs. Assesses product performance and recommends improvements.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Measurement System Analysis (MSA)

Quality Control Supervisor

Ensures that standards and requirements are followed and that quality does not suffer as a result of faulty tools, materials, or workmanship. Reviews work performed by others to assess its accuracy, completeness, conformity to specifications, and adherence to design parameters. Evaluate product performance and recommend improvements.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Lean Management, Risk Management, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements, 

Quality Improvement Specialist

Identifies problems and potential solutions; analyzes data to determine causes and effects; implements corrective actions; monitors progress; and communicates findings to stakeholders. Plans, organizes, conducts, and directs improvement projects. May develop and implement strategies to improve processes.

Recommended training: Seven Basic Quality Tools, Quality Management for Business Excellence, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, Lean Management, Risk Management, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements, 

Quality Auditor

Plans and conducts quality audits and reviews the documentation (work instructions, manuals, records, etc.). Identifies deficiencies and provides suggestions on how to correct them. Assesses the effectiveness of controls and evaluates procedures to prevent errors.

Recommended training: Certified Quality Auditor Training

Quality Engineer

Performs tests on materials, equipment, and systems to determine their fitness for purpose, function, efficiency, and durability. Designs and develops new production methods, processing, packaging, distribution, use, and disposal. Develops plans to achieve desired results. Maintains records and prepares reports. Recommends changes to reduce costs.

Recommended training: Certified Quality Engineer Training, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Root Cause Analysis, Kano Analysis, Lean Management, Risk Management, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements,

Reliability Engineer

Designs and implements solutions to reduce failures and increase system availability and reliability. Performs analyses of existing systems to identify potential sources of trouble before failure occurs. Identifies and analyzes causes of failures, recommending preventive measures. Evaluates alternative approaches to solving problems.

Recommended training: Certified Quality Engineer Training, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Root Cause Analysis, Kano Analysis,

Six Sigma Black Belt

Demonstrates mastery over Six Sigma principles, techniques, tools, and methodologies (Black Belts) and has a working knowledge of Lean Six Sigma Black Belts. A Six Sigma Black Belt is responsible for executing a strategic plan for continuous improvement, analyzing data, implementing and supporting programs and initiatives, and managing teams.

Recommended training: Six Sigma Black Belt Training, Data Analysis Using Minitab, Data Analysis Using Excel,

Six Sigma Master Black Belt

A person who demonstrates mastery over Six Sigma concepts, techniques, tools, practices, and applications. Has a working knowledge of Lean and/or Continuous Improvement. Manages a team of Black Belts. Uses statistical analysis to establish processes that can deliver consistent, measurable, and profitable business outcomes.

Recommended training: Six Sigma Black Belt Training, Multiple Regression, Logistic Regression,  Data Analysis Using Python, Data Analysis Using R, Data Visualization Using Python, Data Visualization Using R,

Quality Manager / Quality Assurance Manager

Leads or assists in planning, organizing, directing, and controlling operations of a facility or business unit to produce goods and provide services. Directs personnel, exercises authority over subordinates, and ensures that objectives are met. Resolves conflicts between departments and individuals. Meets deadlines. Provides quality training. Communicate information to employees, customers, suppliers, and government agencies. Ensures compliance with laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Responsible for developing annual budgets.

Recommended training: Certified Quality Manager Training

Supplier Quality Surveillance (SQS) Coordinator / Supplier Quality Representative (SQR)

Responsible for monitoring supplier performance to ensure adherence to contract requirements. May also monitor customer complaints and resolve issues. Verifies that all necessary documentation is complete. Prepares reports and recommendations regarding defects and nonconformance. Works closely with management to resolve problems. Performs or coordinates routine inspections and audits with a third-party inspector. Coordinates SQS activities with other internal groups such as engineering, procurement and quality assurance.

Recommended training: Supplier Quality Management Certification, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Root Cause Analysis, Lean Management, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training

Supplier Quality Engineer/Manager

Manages supplier's quality control program. Oversees all aspects of supplier quality including inspection, testing, specification development, problem resolution, and documentation. Provides technical assistance to suppliers and communicates feedback regarding their products and services. Analyzes and interprets supplier documents and specifications. Plans and coordinates supplier visits. May oversee factory audits and inspections. Assists in ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

Recommended training: Supplier Quality Management Certification, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Root Cause Analysis, Lean Management, Mastering ISO 9001 Requirements, QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor Training

Quality Director

Directs and coordinates activities of quality department. Formulates quality assurance policies and strategies. Develops an environment of continual improvement. Establishes direction for quality improvement. Initiates employee benefits programs. Manages company's image and reputation. Measures and maintains customer satisfaction.

Recommended training: Certified Quality Manager Training